Hamilton woman receives Woman of Spirit award for Indigenous advocacy

The latest recipient of the Woman of Spirit Award was honoured on Wednesday, recognizing a Hamilton woman who continues to strive to make the world a better place.

The award was presented by the Women’s Canadian Club of Hamilton at a luncheon on Wednesday at the Michelangelo Banquet Centre located at 1555 Upper Ottawa St.

It was a tearful celebration for Wilamina McGrimmond, who was honoured in a sold-out event for her advocacy on Indigenous women’s issues.

“I just never thought I would ever win anything so it’s such a beautiful thing to say I’ve won,” said McGrimmond, an advocate for Indigenous women and families.

McGrimmond hopes her win will bring more awareness to the struggles of First Nations women.

The winner receives $500 from Scotiabank to be donated to the charitable organization of her choice, a pair of engraved gold earrings from Hamilton jewelry artist Susan Ricketts, and a piece of art handcrafted by a Canadian artist.

The award is given out in order to highlight and celebrate the achievements of a woman in the Greater Hamilton Area.

The award was created in honour of Eillen Vollick who became Canada’s first licensed female pilot on Mar. 13, 1928 in Mount Hope.